In Former Songs

In Former Songs by Walt Whitman

 1
IN former songs Pride have I sung, and Love, and passionate, joyful Life, 
But here I twine the strands of Patriotism and Death. 

And now, Life, Pride, Love, Patriotism and Death, 
To you, O FREEDOM, purport of all! 
(You that elude me most—refusing to be caught in songs of mine,)
I offer all to you. 

2
’Tis not for nothing, Death, 
I sound out you, and words of you, with daring tone—embodying you, 
In my new Democratic chants—keeping you for a close, 
For last impregnable retreat—a citadel and tower,
For my last stand—my pealing, final cry.

Form: Free verse

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